As further evidence of Secretary Vilsack’s belief that broadband is the foundation of rural economic development, he brought together American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP) recipients, economic development experts, and USDA officials in Dallas last week. They worked together to prepare for the deployment and expansion of broadband into some of the most remote locations in rural America. The workshop provided the opportunity for recipients to learn about compliance and reporting requirements associated with their funding packages. Additionally, the workshop brought together representatives in the broadband industry with economic development experts to communicate how their unique roles can work together in a holistic approach to community economic development.
